Find out how The Fire Fighters Charity has supported beneficiaries across the UK and how you can share your story with the fire community. Click categories or regions below to filter the list of stories.
Emma Hughes has just become our first Charity Ambassador, a new voluntary role that aims to increase awareness of The Fire Fighters Charity. And it's all in memory of her dad, Graham, a firefighter with Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue, who passed away in 2003. When work-related stress saw Ben Fildes' childhood dream of being a firefighter come tumbling down around him, he was at breaking point. Afraid he would be told to 'man up' for talking about his feelings, two weeks spent at Jubilee House taught him not to be afraid to ask for help. Ten years later, he reflects on how far he has come. Former Deputy Chief Fire Officer Tony Proctor became anxious and stressed after he retired, here’s how our psychological support services allowed him to enjoy his retirement. Retired Watch Manager, Stephen McArdle, was struggling to manage after fracturing bones in his shoulder, back and ribs in a road bike accident.
After retiring from Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service Bob was involved in a serious road traffic collision. Tragically his wife was killed in the accident and he sustained major injuries which hospitalised him for a year. In this interview, Bob tells his story and explains how the Charity has helped him regain his mobility and independence.
Emma: “I just thought ‘I need to be part of this’.”
Ben: “It’s not a weakness to ask for help”
Tony: “I’m now a happier person”
Stephen: “I knew I was in the best place”
Bob Stovell: “I can start living again”
